A moving Movember tribute to much-loved colleague John

STAFF at an accountancy firm are embracing facial fuzz in memory of a much-loved colleague.

Sixteen workers from Riley and Co, Halifax, are taking part in prostate cancer campaign Movember after secretary John Hoad sadly died aged 62 from the disease last month.

Simon Walton, a company director, said he had been battling it for around 11 years and had still been working up until September.

“We were all devastated because he went so quickly in the end,” he said.

“We did know that his cancer was going through a more aggressive stage because he was having treatment, but in between his radiotherapy he was in work and still his old self.

“He was always full of beans and a very valued member of staff who we miss a great deal.”

The men taking part have each drawn a different moustache style to cultivate until the end of the month, when their efforts will be judged.

Mr Walton, who drew “the wisp”, said: “I think John would have a good laugh at us.

“He enjoyed a laugh and a joke and if he could see us all now I think it would bring a smile to his face.”

Even the women have joined in by donning stick-on moustaches.

The cause is especially close to team captain Vicky Atkinson, who recently found out her father Mike Riley had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

“My dad had surgery in the summer for prostate cancer and thankfully has just been given the all clear,” she said.

“It has been a very worrying time for the whole family and has spurred me on to raise as much money as possible for this fantastic charity and also help to raise awareness about the importance of men’s health.”

The team has already raised £700 for Movember, which supports the Prostate Cancer Charity and the Institute of Cancer Reaserch.

To donate, visit www.movember.com/uk/donate/your-details/team_id/206806 or call into the office in St John’s Lane.